News'A great thrill' - NBA legend Steve Kerr on visiting LFC

The Golden State Warriors head coach is a stated fan of the Reds and met several players and manager Jürgen Klopp during a trip to the club’s Kirkby base.

Speaking about the visit, Kerr – who won five NBA championships as a player and has claimed four as a head coach – also explained how Mohamed Salah initially inspired his passion for LFC.

“I started following the Premier League maybe five or six years ago and I had seen Mohamed Salah play and read about him,” said Kerr. “I was just so impressed by his character and what he had done in his hometown, helping to build a school.

“I knew how beloved he was in Egypt, so I said, ‘That’s my guy!’ I wanted to cheer for Mohamed Salah and when I found out he played for Liverpool I said, ‘OK, that’s my team!’ So, I’ve been a Liverpool fan ever since.”

He continued: “I’ve gotten to meet some of the coaches. I met with Jürgen Klopp the other day in Liverpool, which was a great thrill. Watching the game, it’s very similar in terms of concepts.

“Even though there’s 11 players in soccer and only five in basketball, it’s still very much a game about three people – whoever has the ball and whoever is closest to that player – and being able to pass and move in small triangles across the court or the pitch; trying to beat your man and beat the defender with cutting and spacing, it’s all very similar.

“I’m still trying to learn more about soccer – I’m not an expert – but I enjoy watching it, and I feel like I’m always learning something.”